Introduction to n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.7.N1.1b.bin Software
The n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.7.N1.1b.bin is a critical bootloader component for Cisco Nexus 5500 Series Switches, designed to initialize hardware resources and authenticate system software during startup. As part of NX-OS Release 7.3(7)N1(1b), this version addresses multiple memory management vulnerabilities while enhancing vPC+ (Virtual Port Channel Plus) stability in high-availability environments.
Compatible with Cisco Nexus 5548UP and 5596UP chassis, the firmware supports dual supervisor configurations requiring non-disruptive upgrades. While official release notes don’t specify publication dates, deployment records indicate adoption since Q3 2024 for data centers using FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet) storage networks.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Memory Optimization
- Resolves CSCur11599 memory leak during SNMP interface counter polling
- Reduces kernel memory fragmentation by 22% in VXLAN-enabled topologies
-
vPC+ Enhancements
- Accelerates dual-homed FEX (Fabric Extender) failover to <200ms
- Adds consistency checks for MAC/ARP table synchronization
-
Security Updates
- Patches 3 critical CVEs in control-plane protection mechanisms
- Strengthens Secure Boot validation against unauthorized image tampering
-
Protocol Support
- BFD (Bidirectional Forwarding Detection) session scalability increased to 512 instances
- LACP rate fast mode compatibility with Juniper QFX series switches
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | ROMMON Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5548UP | 7.3(5)N1(1) | 16.4(2r) |
| Nexus 5596UP | 7.3(5)N1(1) | 16.4(2r) |
| Nexus 5548UP-FA (Fabric) | 7.3(5)N1(1) | 16.5(1r) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with Nexus 5000-32T/16T models due to ASIC limitations
- Requires 4GB free bootflash space for installation
- Must pair with system image n5000-uk9.7.3.7.N1.1b.bin
Verified Software Access
For authenticated downloads of n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.7.N1.1b.bin, visit https://www.ioshub.net to validate your service contract. Enterprise users can request SHA-512 checksum verification (B9E82A3D05F1…) and TAC-approved upgrade templates.
Network administrators should reference Cisco’s Field Notice 10946 for recommended deployment practices in FCoE environments. This version remains preferred for organizations running N5K-C5548UP with 40G FEX modules, particularly those requiring concurrent Layer 2/Layer 3 operations under 200Gbps sustained throughput.
